Richard Philip van Etten

Richard P. “Dick” Van Etten, age 95, of Old Lyme, Connecticut, formerly of Monticello, New York, passed away peacefully at home on June 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a brief illness.

Born on December 30, 1930, in Lake Katrine, New York, Dick was the eldest child of Richard and Margaret Helen Van Etten. He was a devoted brother to Robert A. Van Etten, Margaret H. “Peggy” Van Etten, and Jan S. Van Etten.

Dick lived a life defined by dedication, hard work, athletic achievement, and unwavering devotion to his family. During his high school years, he earned recognition as a celebrated four-letter man, excelling in basketball, baseball, track, and soccer. His athletic talents and competitive spirit remained a defining part of his character throughout his life.

Following high school, Dick attended Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He later enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country while stationed in Germany following World War II.

Upon returning home, Dick joined his father in the family business, Van Etten Oil, in Monticello, New York. He later entered the insurance industry with Fred Durland Insurance, a Travelers Insurance Agency. When Fred Durland retired, Dick purchased the agency and renamed it Durland-Van Etten Agency. Through years of leadership and dedication, the agency grew into one of the region’s respected insurance firms. Following its sale to the Rhulen Agency, Dick became a partner and continued his successful career until retiring after the company was ultimately acquired by Markel Insurance.

Outside of business, Dick was widely known for his passion for running. Together with his beloved wife, Jeri, he became a fixture in the running community. He competed in countless 10K races and consistently finished among the top runners in his age group. Even in his seventies and beyond, Dick's determination, discipline, and competitive spirit inspired those around him.

Above all else, Dick treasured his family. His kindness, integrity, wisdom, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Geraldine “Jeri” Van Etten, with whom he shared more than 70 years of marriage; his children Karen, Jeanne, Linda, and Richard Van Etten; and his cherished grandchildren Evan Allees, Jarad Allees, Marty O'Connor, Paul O'Connor, Alexandra Jones, Bernadette Hedge, and Gregory Rausch.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Susan Van Etten, and grandson, Drew Allees.

Dick will be remembered for his dedication to family, service to his community, professional accomplishments, athletic excellence, and the example he set through a life of integrity and perseverance. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

“A life measured not only by years, but by the people inspired, the family loved, and the example left behind.”